HNP Definition, Symptoms and Treatments

Herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) is a degenerative spine condition that occurs when one or more of the intervertebral discs in the spinal column become weakened and tear. This tear is usually asymptomatic in and of itself, but chronic pain and other pain-related symptoms can develop when the herniated disc material comes into contact with one of the spinal nerve roots or the spinal cord. The specific symptoms experienced by the patient vary largely, depending on the location and source of the disc herniation. Likewise, treatment options will vary from patient to patient, with the majority of patients with HNP responding to conservative, noninvasive treatment, and a segment eventually requiring spinal surgery.

Causes and Symptoms

In a healthy spine, the vertebrae in the back and neck are cushioned and separated evenly with thick, spongy intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers. Over the years, regular wear and tear takes its toll on these pads and the discs can become weakened and dehydrated. Eventually, an annular tear may develop in the fibrous wall of the disc – the annulus fibrosus –causing the gel-like nuclear pulposus to escape from the disc, potentially leading to painful nerve compression. It’s worth noting that HNP can also be caused earlier in life by a traumatic or sports-related injury.

Some common symptoms of HNP include:

• Chronic back or neck pain
• Sciatica
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness and tingling
• Stiff or sore muscles
• Stress

Treatments

The good news is that patients with HNP normally respond to conservative, nonsurgical treatment. Assuming the patient’s pain isn’t debilitating or rapidly worsening, a spine specialist will normally work with the patient to develop a treatment plan that has been tailored to the individual’s age, symptoms, and location of the HNP. Pain medication, low-impact exercise, stretching, hot or cold compresses, and limited rest are all normally effective for alleviating pain and allowing the disc to heal

If conservative treatments have not provided you with the pain relief you require from your HNP, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn about our minimally invasive, outpatient endoscopic procedures as an alternative to open spine surgery.